Overall, I am really pleasantly surprised to see that my scores were so close to my evaluators. The Communication Anxiety Inventory scores for example, were all within 1 point of each other and indicated I have a low level of communication anxiety when speaking to others.  All of the final scores on the Verbal Aggressiveness Scale were also very close. Each score indicated that I indulge in a moderate level of verbal aggressiveness meaning that I am able to maintain a good balance between respecting and considering others’ viewpoints. Each score also indicates that I am able to argue fairly by attacking the facts of a position rather than the person holding that position and lastly, all of my Listening Style scores are the same. My highest score shows that I am a relationship builder or People-Oriented, first.  Next, I prefer clear, to-the-point communication that outlines a plan of action. Overall, this communication style is efficient and respected but it can also be intimidating and business-like to some who are more sensitive listeners (Rubin, 2009).

O’Hair says that voluntary self-disclosure has more impact or creates more intimacy if it goes below surface information and I am very happy to see that my evaluators see me as I see myself—one who treats others as well as children and their families with the humane kindness, consideration and respect they deserve and one that is committed to getting the job done as an integral part of a qualified team. I see this style as a positive relationship and strength builder of those who, like me, love what they do for children and families and consider themselves to be vested owners in the business rather than just mere staff in the workplace and as such, take pride in setting goals for themselves and the workplace and meeting them in order to be the best they can be (Rubin, 2009).

O’Hair also says those who are sensitive to feedback are susceptible and receptive to information about their abilities. One thing I learned after completing this assignment is that communicating with a flair for treating others as they would like to be treated is paramount to being an effective communicator.  Effective communication is meaningful, expresses feelings and creativity, is symbolic and shares information.  Effective communication can help careers; strengthen relationships, create opportunities and can accomplish goals (O’Hair, 2015).

References

O'Hair, D., Wiemann, M., Mullin, D. I., & Teven, J.  (2015). Real communication (3rd ed).  New York: Bedford/St. Martin's.

Rubin, R. B., Palmgreen, P., & Sypher, H. E. (Eds.) (2009). Communication research measures: A sourcebook. New York: Routledge.